Yasuo Kuniyoshi: The Complete Graphic Work - Hardcover

Davis, Richard A.

Hardcover

ISBN 10: 1556600895 ISBN 13: 9781556600890

Publisher: Alan Wofsy Fine Arts, 1991

Synopsis

This is the complete catalogue of the Japanese-American artist's original prints, consisting of etchings and lithographs. It is the indispensable reference for the collector, dealer and curator.Yasuo Kuniyoshi ( 1889-1953) emigrated to America from Japan as a teenager, rising to prominence in the New York art world during the 1920s to become one of the most esteemed artists in America between the two world wars. He drew on American folk art, Japanese design and iconography and European modernism to create a distinctive visual style. Kuniyoshi defined himself as an American artist while at the same time remaining very aware that his Japanese origins played an important role in his identity and artistic practices.His inventive, humorous early works often included subtle color harmonies, simplified shapes, oddly proportioned figures and an eccentric handling of space and scale. His work became more sensuous and worldly after two long stays in Paris, as he painted moody, reflective women and still lifes with unusual objects.Kuniyoshi was thoroughly integrated into American life and the art world, but immigration law prevented him from becoming an American citizen. Classified an enemy alien after the bombing of Pearl Harbor, he remained steadfastly on the side of his adopted country during the painful war years, working with the Office of War Information to create artworks indicting Japanese atrocities. After the war, Kuniyoshi developed a compelling late style, with bitter subjects and paradoxically bright colors.

About this edition

• Publisher: Alan Wofsy Fine Arts
• Publication date: 1991
• ISBN 10: 1556600895
• ISBN 13: 9781556600890
• Binding: Hardcover